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Online Bereavement Support
Someone you love has died and you’re looking for support but can’t find a grief support group that fits into your busy schedule. Or perhaps you don’t feel comfortable grieving in front of others; you’d prefer the comfort of your own home. And especially in these times of social distancing, webinars offer a way to connect with others who are grieving. Our webinar Conversations On Grief may be the support solution you’re looking for.
Our webinar offers monthly online access to grief support and education through your phone, computer or mobile device. From the comfort of your home, you’re welcome to participate without having to deal with traffic, long distances or childcare. Grief is a journey. It is our sincere hope that during each webinar you’ll find comfort, compassion, understanding, and encouragement as you heal.
Conversations On Grief webinars are facilitated by Bereavement Counselor, Mary Piatt, Director of Volunteer and Bereavement Services, Nancy McCranie, and Bereavement Coordinator, Esmeralda Huerta . Conversations On Grief webinars are offered the 3rd Thursday of the month from 11 am to 12 pm. You’re welcome to attend one, several or all webinars.
Mary Piatt, LPC-Associate – Mary went back to school in her fifties and started her work with Hospice Austin as a counseling intern during the pandemic. After graduating from St. Edward’s University and passing her licensure exam, Mary became a part-time employee at Hospice Austin in January 2022. She works with bereavement clients and support groups. When not working, Mary likes to do projects around her house and play in her garden. She and her husband, Dennis, have two sons, two daughters, and two cats.
Nancy McCranie, M.Div – Nancy began working for Hospice Austin as a chaplain in 1996. Since 2009 she has served as the Director of Volunteer and Bereavement Services and is a frequent speaker for area groups, leading discussions about end-of-life issues and the process of grieving a loss. Nancy is an ordained minister with the Presbyterian Church (USA) and holds a M.Div. degree from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Nancy is married to Sheldon, an organic/bio-dynamic farmer and rancher who raises blueberries and beef. They have two sons, three dogs, two cats, and a donkey.
The Power of Gratitude in Grief
Thursday, February 20th, 2025, 11am until noon
Gratitude and grief might not seem like words that belong together when discussing loss. After all, how can one feel grateful while mourning the loss of a loved one? In this webinar, we will explore the concept of emotional agility and strategies for embracing both grief and gratitude simultaneously.
Grief: The Demanding and Uninvited Guest
Thursday, March 20th, 2025, 11am until noon
Grief is a demanding houseguest. It creates chaos, leaving dirty dishes in the sink, clothes scattered on the floor, and an empty refrigerator. It keeps odd and unpredictable hours, disrupting your sleep and leaving you feeling unrested. It also lacks social grace, intruding when you’re on the phone or trying to enjoy lunch with a friend.
In this webinar, we’ll discuss strategies for setting boundaries around the demands of grief and ways to better integrate it into your life instead of working against it.
Finding Movement Within the Paralysis of Grief
Thursday, April 17th, 2025, 11am until noon
The experience of grief can leave you with little energy or motivation to draw upon as you face tremendous loss and the multitude of emotions and logistical tasks that go with it. You are grieving yet you still must pay the bills. You feel deep emotions, yet you also feel numb. During this webinar you will learn how to make space for both stillness and movement as you navigate your unique grief experience.
Help! I’m Starting to Feel Better
Thursday, May 15th, 2025, 11am until noon
In the early part of our grief journey, we don’t see how it’s possible to ever feel happy again. And when we do feel a moment of joy or happiness, feelings of guilt, remorse and shame often follow close behind.
Over time however we can learn to invite joy back into our life. We begin to truly feel that our loved one wants us to be happy and that our happiness is an important expression of the love we shared.
During this webinar you’ll learn that feeling better is not a betrayal of your loved one nor does it minimize the importance of your relationship. We will share tips on how to engage in your life without feeling as if you are forgetting them or moving away from them.
For questions, please call Hospice Austin’s Bereavement Department: 512-342-4700.